Interview tips

It's important to be yourself in an interview but it can be hard to relax. Here are some tips to help you keep calm and present yourself well.

Get set to go

• Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves before you go in.
• A positive attitude can help you getting too nervous.
• Show you have made an effort by dressing smartly and being well groomed.
• There's nothing wrong with smelling nice but don't overdo the perfume or after shave - you don't want the interviewer to pass out from the fumes!
• Take a copy of your CV in with you, in case your interviewer doesn't have one to hand.

What does your body language say?

Find out how to look confident rather than cocky, and relaxed rather than uninterested, in your interview.

Do:

• shake hands firmly - a limp wrist doesn't give a good impression
• smile - it will help you relax and make sure your personality shines through
• maintain eye contact with the interviewer
• accept their offer of a glass of water, then you won't have to worry about getting a dry mouth or having a coughing fit
• ask the interviewer to explain anything you don't understand

Don't:

• cross your arms - it will make you look stand-offish
• slouch in your chair
• fidget, pick at your nails or play with your hair
• have a hot drink - you could accidentally knock it over and scald yourself - or someone else
• interrupt the interviewer when they're talking

It might feel like there's a lot here to try and remember, but once you've had a couple of interviews it will all come naturally.